The Directorate for External Relations (DER) held a five-day Reintegration Summit from 10 March to 14 March 2025. Themed “Developing Genuine Continuity of Support by Building Effective Programs for Reintegration”, the event was organized by the DER, External Affairs Division (EAD) and team, led by CT/SUPT NOEL M MARQUEZ, DVM, DPA, Director, DER, and CT/INSP STELLA MAY C LAT, Chief, EAD with the External Affairs Sections (EAS) of all Operating Prison and Penal Farms (OPPF). The activity took place at the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP), Tagaytay City.
Among the prominent attendees at the program were CT/CSUPT MA CECILIA V VILLANUEVA, MD, CPro, Officer-in-Charge, Office of the Deputy Director General for Reformation (ODDGR); DR. JANETTE S. PADUA, CESE, MNSA, MPSA, Regional Head, Department of Justice – Parole and Probation Administration – Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan Region (DOJ – PPA – MIMAROPA); MS. ANALYN MERCADO, RSW, Head, Social Service Department, Muntinlupa City; MS. LEILA R. LEGAYO, Labor and Employment Officer III and DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) Regional Focal Person; and ATTY. JESSA BRILLANTES, from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) – Muntinlupa, Parañaque, and Las Piñas (MuntiParLas).
The summit officially commenced on 10 March 2025 with insightful opening remarks from CT/SUPT MARQUEZ, who expressed enthusiasm for the presence of the distinguished guests and outlined the summit agenda. The agenda featured a combination of presentations, workshops, and interactive sessions. The first presentation focused on the Proposed Table of Organizations and Equipment (TOE), delivered by DER and EAD staff. This session provided a comprehensive overview of the organizational structure and the specific duties and functions assigned to each role within the reintegration programs. The summit proceeded with a presentation on the proposed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the Reintegration Programs for PDL. This session aimed to establish a clear and consistent process for evaluating the needs and progress of PDLs.
Additionally, a presentation on Unified Templates, Matrix, and Formats for Weekly and Monthly Accomplishment Reports, was discussed to enhance program monitoring. The day concluded with a session where each OPPF shared its best practices, offering insights into innovative strategies and successful initiatives implemented throughout the program. CT/CSUPT VILLANUEVA then delivered a motivational message, emphasizing the importance of loyalty to the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) and reinforcing the commitment needed to fulfill the agency’s mission.
On Day 2 of the summit, 11 March 2025, MS. LEGAYO discussed DOLE programs for sustainable employment, outlining key labor laws and services. Meanwhile, ATTY. BRILLANTES provided further details on the “Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD)” program, a government initiative to provide emergency employment for displaced and disadvantaged workers. Additionally, DER and EAD presented the Blue and Red Ribbon Project, an initiative aimed at promoting community awareness through knowledge-sharing, advocacy, and partnership-building.
On Day 3 of the summit, 12 March 2025, DR. PADUA discussed the Corrections Pillar of the Criminal Justice System in the Philippines, followed by an overview of the Unified After-care Referral Monitoring System/Program for former Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL). She also led a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) Analysis Workshop, where each OPPF was divided into four groups to identify and analyze the strengths and weaknesses within their respective Areas of Responsibility (AOR). The guest speakers were presented with certificates and tokens of appreciation, in recognition of their invaluable expertise on the subject matter. CT/CSUPT VILLANUEVA delivered heartfelt closing remarks, urging all attendees to remain resilient and committed to continuous improvement in their roles as Corrections Officers, particularly in enhancing service delivery and promoting positive change within their communities.
The summit was extended for an additional day on 14 March 2025. On this day, MS. ANALYN MERCADO, Head of the Social Service Department in Muntinlupa City, delivered a vital lecture on promoting strategic collaboration and partnerships. CT/INSP LAT concluded the session with closing remarks, emphasizing that the work being done is not just a responsibility but a meaningful commitment to fostering positive change, not only in the lives of PDL but also in the broader community.
The 5-day Reintegration Summit organized by the DER and EAD proved to be a successful platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and strategic planning. With a focus on building effective reintegration programs, the summit helped strengthen the commitment of stakeholders to support the reintegration of PDL, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and supportive society.
CTO1 Jaycille B Cagoco
Contributor
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